Sparkling wine is a wine style characterized by significant levels of carbon dioxide that gives the wine its fizziness and effervescence. This can be a result of natural fermentation, either in a bottle, as in the traditional method like in Champagne, or in a large tank designed to withstand the pressures involved, as in the Charmat method.
The main varietals used in making sparkling wine include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, amongst others. However, almost any grape variety can be used.
The flavor profile of Sparkling wine can range from very dry styles, labelled as "brut", to sweeter versions known as "doux". The wines often have flavours and aromas of apple, pear, citrus, strawberry, cream, and vanilla.
Notable regions for sparkling wine include Champagne and Burgundy in France, Catalonia (for Cava) in Spain, Veneto (for Prosecco) in Italy, and California in the United States. Sparkling wines are often used in celebratory occasions and pair well with a wide variety of foods due to its high acidity and slight sweetness.
